Ingredients
Method
- Add olive oil to a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned (about 5 minutes).
- Add the carrots, bell pepper, and celery and stir occasionally. Cook until the veggies are softened (about 4 minutes). Add in the garlic and cook 1 additional minute.
- Stir in the remaining ingredients, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The veggies should be very soft and the sauce should have thickened.
- Serve hot on buns & enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Nutrition (filling only): ~270 calories, 34g protein, 10g fat, 2.3g fiber per serving.
- Storage: Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of beef broth or water.
- Sloppy Jane Variation: Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken for an even lighter version.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with cooked lentils or plant-based ground “meat.”
- Serving Ideas: Serve on toasted buns, over baked sweet potatoes, in whole grain pita pockets, or over brown rice for a Sloppy Joe bowl.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
- Pro Tip: Finely dicing the veggies (or pulsing in a food processor) helps them melt into the sauce without changing the texture.
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Troubleshooting:
- My sauce is too thick: Add an extra splash of beef broth or water to thin it out, one splash at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- My sauce is too thin: Simmer the recipe uncovered to let excess liquid evaporate until the sauce thickens to your liking.